The Lerderderg State Park is rugged and remote with limited directional signage. You should be prepared for all conditions and have suitable navigation experience (not just a phone app) before venturing beyond the main picnic/parking areas or Grahams Dam. Many rescues have occurred in this park that could have been avoided.
The Bears Head Circuit is a demanding hike that delves into one of the most secluded and rarely visited sections of the Lerderderg Gorge. Experienced hikers will relish the solitude and thrill of venturing into this untouched wilderness.
The journey begins at the Lohs Lane car park, where you'll embark on a 2.5 km trek along the Lerderderg River. The river crossing can be a formidable challenge, especially after heavy rainfall.
Once you've conquered the river, the real adventure begin. The circuit ascends steeply through dense bushland, putting your endurance and determination to the test. As you ascend, the surrounding vistas become increasingly breathtaking, providing ample motivation to push onward.
Upon reaching the summit of the Bears Head Range, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views that stretch as far as the eye can see. Savor the sense of accomplishment as you stand atop this rugged peak, knowing that you've conquered one of the Lerderderg's most challenging hikes.
The descent back to the river is equally demanding, requiring a surefootedness and a head for heights. As you make your way down, you'll encounter sections of exposed rock that require scrambling.
The final leg of the hike follows the riverbed back to the car park. Be prepared to get your feet wet as you navigate the river's currents and wade through shallow pools.
The Bears Head Circuit is not for the faint of heart. It's a physically demanding hike that requires a good level of fitness and experience. But for those who are up for the challenge, it's an unforgettable adventure that will leave you feeling exhilarated and accomplished.
The Bears Head Circuit is a great way to experience the best of Lerderderg State Park. The trail is challenging, but it is also very rewarding. If you are looking for a challenging and rewarding hike, the Bears Head Circuit is a great option. However, be sure to be in good physical condition and have some experience hiking in the bush before you attempt this hike.
- The descent into the gorge via Ah Kow Spur is steep and slippery. Take great care in this section of the track. There are multiple river crossings and rock scrambling which make this hike suitable for experienced hikers only.
- Hiking poles recommended.
- Start early in the day, as the hike can take up to 7 hours to complete.
- Wear sturdy footwear with good ankle support. I also highly recommend water shoes if you have them as it will make the crossings easier.
- Bring plenty of water, as there is no 'treated' drinking water available on the hike, other than the river.
- Be prepared for all types of weather conditions, as the weather in the Lerderderg Gorge can change quickly.
- Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to be back.
Total distance: 15823 m
Max elevation: 629 m
Min elevation: 270 m
Total climbing: 638 m
Total descent: -638 m
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Grade 4 (Hard) -
Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the
AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.
Follow the Western Freeway 9km past Bacchus Marsh and take the Myrniong exit. Continue along the Myrniong-Greendale Road for 1km, then turn right on the Mount Blackwood Road. Follow this narrow surfaced road north for 8km and turn right onto Lohs Lane. Drive a further 500m to the gate and park on the right.
- 2WD Access
- Gravel Road
- Winding Road
Rising in the Great Dividing Range, the Lerderderg River has cut a 300 metre deep gorge through sandstone and slate, almost bisecting the park. The park has a wide variety of vegetation and wildlife and some interesting relics of gold mining. Lerderderg State Park encompasses scenic and geological gorge formations surrounding the Lerderderg River as well as the volcanic cone of Mount Blackwood. The adjacent and separate block called the Pyrete Range forms part of the park. The Lerderderg is known for its remote setting and the 300m deep Lerderderg River gorge is a dominant feature. Private land abuts the park to the south and the Wombat State forest abuts to the north and west.
Lerderderg State Park (incorporating the former Pyrete State Forest) is a 14,250-hectare park located between Bacchus Marsh and Blackwood, an hour's drive from Melbourne, Australia. There are several maintained tracks for walking through the park and camping is allowed.
The park is named for the Lerderderg River which has cut the 300 metre deep Lerderderg Gorge through sandstone and slate, almost bisecting the park. Parks Victoria maintains six designated walks: three short walks of 3.5 km or less; Blackwood-O'Briens Crossing and return (22 km); O'Briens Crossing-Cowan Track loop (14 km); and the overnight walk O'Briens Crossing to Mackenzies Flat (20 km).
In addition, one leg of the Great Dividing Trail, the Lerderderg Track, passes through the park, entering from Blackwood in the park's northwest, and exiting south towards Bacchus Marsh. Bicycles are prohibited from one section of this track, due to a conservation area.
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
Looking for things to do in Lerderderg State Park or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.
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Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
3 Reviews on “Bears Head Circuit Hike (16km)”
Maty J Lewis add it to the list – good distance
Nicky Leitch
Nope, haven’t done this one. It keeps popping up in my feed from a variety of pages. Must be trying to tell me something.
Nope, Looks great though! Just added to my ‘to do’ list.
Lerderderg is really cool. Only an hour and a half from Melb. You keen?
Oh yeah Jo. Let’s do it!!
Oh yes, definately
One of my most favourite hikes! 🙂
Ooh nice!
Pretty sure that’s the hike we did at Lerderderg back when Cassie was a a Scout.
Relle Sooz ???
Richard Oxley weekend away?
Rob Weir Clive Watling a nice little training hike.
Sarah van den Berg
Scott Timson
Shaun Twentyman, you guys done this one?
Shayne Gillings next mission…
Shelly Anthea hills, river crossings – rock scrambling yasss ????
Simon Izzard
Sinead Ryan Ben Frilay-Cox James Dooley
Sounds good we’ll have a look at it thanks